Australian tomato seeds restricted in NZ after virus found at sites

Biosecurity New Zealand has placed import restriction on tomato seeds from Australia after a virus was identified at two South Australian growing properties.

The tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) — which was first noted in the Middle East — has never been detected in New Zealand, and affects tomatoes, capsicums, and chillies. The virus caused yellowing and deformity in the host plants, but has no impact on human health.

Biosecurity New Zealand deputy director general Stuart Anderson said all New Zealand's imported tomatoes from Australia currently came from Queensland and not South Australia, but biosecurity requirements have been "stepped up" regardless.

"Imported seeds for sowing from Australia will now require testing for the virus prior to arrival in New Zealand, which is a requirement that is already in place for other countries where the virus is present.

"We have also temporarily suspended tomato imports from all Australian states except Queensland, where there is no evidence of the disease or links to the affected properties in South Australia."

Anderson said there was nothing to suggest the virus was here but asked growers to check their biosecurity practices "and be vigilant if they notice problems with their tomatoes".

The pests and diseases hotline could also be contacted on 0800 80 99 66.

In a statement, TomatoesNZ chairperson Barry O'Neil expressed concern of "dire consequences" for the tomato and capsicum industry if the virus was to reach New Zealand's shores.

"This is because the virus spreads extremely easily and has such a major impact on production, with reported crop losses of up to 80%," he said.

"The best line of defence is to keep the virus out of New Zealand. We are in discussions with government officials and the industry about how to achieve this.

"The second-best line of defence is for growers to have strict hygiene measures in place to try to stop tomato brown rugose fruit virus from entering a particular property, if it does arrive in New Zealand."

O'Neil said further information for growers could be found on the TomatoesNZ website or Vegetables NZ website.